By Allison Peck
SUTHERLAND, Neb. — After more than three decades serving the Sutherland community, Maline's Superfoods has announced it will permanently close its doors next month, citing rising costs and increasing financial pressures facing independent grocery stores.
In a statement shared Thursday on social media, the store said its final day of business will be Friday, Aug. 14, 2026. The deli will close one week earlier at the end of business on Friday, Aug. 7.
Store owners said the decision came after "much thought and with heavy hearts."
"The sad reality is that rising operating costs, increasing minimum wage requirements, relentless corporate competition, and inflation have made it impossible for us to continue operating," the statement reads. "Like so many small businesses across America, we have reached a point where we simply cannot continue."
To clear remaining inventory, Maline's has begun a 15% off storewide liquidation sale, effective July 30. The discount applies to most merchandise but excludes alcohol, tobacco and fresh meat.
The store said fresh meat will continue to be cut daily through Aug. 9, although it is no longer accepting large custom meat orders.
Maline's will also operate under reduced business hours for the remainder of its time in operation:
- Monday through Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The grocery store has long been a fixture in Sutherland. Bob and Sherry Maline purchased the community grocery store in 1990, operating it as Maline's Superfoods until retiring in 2023. The couple was recognized by the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association with its Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024 for their decades of service to both the grocery industry and the Sutherland community.
Current owner Scott Carlson took over the business following the Malines' retirement.
In its farewell message, the store thanked generations of customers for their loyalty and support.
"To everyone who has walked through our doors over the years—thank you. Your support, kindness, and friendships have meant more to us than words can express. Many of you have become like family, and serving the Village of Sutherland has truly been an honor."
The statement concludes with a quote from the band Semisonic: "Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end."
The closure will leave Sutherland without its longtime hometown grocery store, which has promoted itself as "Your legendary small-town grocery store offering fresh meats, produce, and more at great prices."